Are you a Colorado resident who loves the great outdoors? From skiing to hiking and everything in between, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had in this beautiful state. However, did you know that Colorado is also known for something else – high levels of radon gas? That’s right, this silent killer may be lurking in your home, putting you and your loved ones at risk.
But fear not, dear adventurers! We’re here to tell you all about radon in Colorado, how it poses a risk to your health, and what you can do to keep yourself safe.
First, let’s talk about what radon is. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. As it seeps into homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation, it accumulates to dangerous levels. In fact, radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US, after smoking.
Now, you might be thinking, “That’s scary, but it can’t be that bad in Colorado, can it?” Unfortunately, it can. Due to Colorado’s unique geology – which includes the Rocky Mountains made up of uranium-rich rocks – the state has some of the highest radon levels in the country. Nearly half of all homes in Colorado have radon levels above the recommended action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), compared to the national average of 1.3 pCi/L. Follow the link to a map of radon levels throughout Colorado.
But don’t worry! There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from this silent killer. The first step is to test your home for radon. There are two types of tests available: short-term tests that last from two to seven days and long-term tests that last more than 90 days. These tests are simple and affordable, and can be conducted by a professional.
If your test results show high levels of radon, there are several options for reducing your exposure. This includes sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation, installing a radon mitigation system, and increasing ventilation.
So, don’t let radon ruin your love for Colorado’s great outdoors. Take action to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from this silent killer. Get your home tested for radon, and if necessary, take steps to mitigate the risk. By doing so, you can continue to enjoy all the adventures that Colorado has to offer!
